AbstractMiconia calvescens DC. (Melastomataceae) is an invasive tree considered the most serious threat to the natural ecosystems of Hawaii and other Pacific islands. We evaluated nine species of natural enemies that feed on inflorescences or leaves of M. calvescens for their potential as biological control agents, comparing their impact on the target plant, host specificity, and vulnerability to biotic interference. Among herbivores attacking reproductive structures of M. calvescens, a fruit-galling wasp from Brazil, Allorhogas sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), and a flower- and fruit-feeding moth from Costa Rica, Mompha sp. (Lepidoptera: Momphidae), were the most promising agents studied. The sawfly Atomacera petroa Smith (Hymenoptera: Argidae) from Brazil was thought to have the highest potential among the defoliators evaluated.